JKC on the Mic!

Keep up-to-date with the latest happenings at Jericho Kids' Club!

Health Bulletin to All Parents

January 20, 2017

Hello Parents,

Please find below the letter circulating to all GG families. The school, along with VCH (Coastal Health) has recognized an outbreak of Norovirus/Flu-like illness at GG. While our other schools have yet to reach the same level, we are hearing reports of many cases within Bayview and Southlands, as well as many of our staff taking ill over the last week.

It’s important to remember a couple of things in these situations- One, that if children are away from school due to illness, they are not permitted to attend JKC that same day. And two, please observe the 48 hour rule mentioned below regarding when to return to school. If we become aware of any symptoms present in the last 48 hours, we will call and ask that your child be picked up from the program.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email.

Regards,

Beau.

Norovirus (Stomach Flu) ActivityThere have been increased reports of student illness with symptoms consistent with Norovirus infection at the school. This virus is circulating in the community at this time.Norovirus infections are very common, especially in schools during winter and early spring. Symptoms usually include a sudden onset of nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. They’re uncomfortable, but not serious. People infected with norovirus always get better on their own in a few days, without treatment. Because a virus causes these infections, antibiotics do not work.Keep your child home from school if they become ill with the symptoms listed above. Children who fall ill during the school day will need to be sent home as soon as possible. Children should not return to school until 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped. These measures will help stop spread of the virus to classmates and school staff. Make sure your child drinks lots of clear fluids to prevent dehydration. If symptoms last more than a few days or are more serious, contact your family doctor.Norovirus is very contagious but not everyone who is exposed will get sick. If children do not have any symptoms, they can go to school.Frequent hand-washing with soap and water is very important to reducing the spread of this virus. This should be done students, staff, and family members at home, especially after using the bathroom, and prior to preparing or eating food. Children should not share food or drinks with their classmates.Additional information can be located at the following web links:Norovirus: http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/hfile87.stmHand-washing: http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthtopics/content.asp?hwid=tv7076specPlease feel free to contact your school public health nurse or our office for further information.